Former Vice President of Nigeria, Atiku Abubakar, has expressed deep sorrow over the tragic loss of at least 200 lives in a boat mishap along the River Niger in Niger State.
The incident, described as “one too many,” occurred in the early hours of Friday when a boat traveling from Kogi State to Katcha Market capsized at the Dambo-Ebuchi section of the river.
In a condolence message, Atiku decried the rising frequency of boat accidents in the country, emphasizing the urgent need for government intervention to prevent further tragedies. He proposed the establishment of an Inland Waterways Guard to enhance safety on Nigeria’s waterways, particularly in states where rivers play a critical role in trade and transportation.
“I am devastated by the news of yet another boat mishap in Niger State,” Atiku stated.
“This heartbreaking incident, which claimed the lives of no fewer than 200 passengers, highlights the pressing need for an Inland Waterways Guard to provide safety support in Niger State and other regions where waterways are vital for commerce and daily life.”
The former presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) extended his condolences to the government and people of Niger State, as well as the families of the victims. He described the repeated loss of lives due to boat mishaps as unacceptable and urged authorities to take swift action to address the situation.
“These tragic incidents are becoming far too common,” Atiku lamented.
“Only two months ago, we were mourning another devastating boat accident. This pattern of avoidable deaths must end. I call on the government to prioritize the safety of Nigerians traveling on our waterways.”
Atiku also prayed for the repose of the souls of the departed and comfort for their grieving families. “My thoughts and prayers are with the families of the victims. May the Almighty grant them the strength to endure this unimaginable loss, and may the souls of the departed find eternal peace,” he added.
The Niger State Emergency Management Agency (NSEMA) confirmed the incident, attributing the tragedy to overloading and poor safety standards. The agency has launched a rescue operation, but many victims remain unaccounted for.
This latest mishap adds to the growing concerns over the safety of Nigeria’s inland waterways, which have seen repeated incidents of fatal boat capsizes. Experts have long called for stricter regulations, better enforcement of safety measures, and the establishment of emergency response units to address the challenges facing waterway transportation.
As the nation mourns yet another avoidable tragedy, the call for actionable reforms in the management of inland waterways has never been louder.
